FIRMS from Coventry and Warwickshire are being challenged to a series of sporting events – with the aim of getting fit while helping to raise cash for a great cause.

Birmingham’s NIA and ICC have teamed up to launch a fitness challenge for the region’s professionals.

Taking place on February 22, the Birmingham Bolt will see firms from across the West Midlands take part in a series of events including jumping, sprinting, long distance running, throwing and relays.

There will also be a range of novelty rounds to ensure that less-sporty professionals can take part. It will see a host of the region’s firms go head-to-head in a day of athletic challenges which raises money for the Birmingham Civic Society’s Next Generation Awards.

The scheme encourages 11-14 year olds to consider what kind of city they would like to be living in, the issues that are important to them and how life in the city might be improved.

Guy Dunstan, general manager of the NIA and its sister venue the LG Arena, said: “The NIA and ICC sit at the heart of the city, surrounded by a wealth of successful businesses so it made sense for us to partner with each other to host an event like this. The idea behind the Birmingham Bolt is to encourage businesses to put on their trainers and showcase their athletic (or not so athletic) ability for a day of fun and fundraising.”

The Birmingham Bolt costs £250 to enter a team of 10 and the day will end with a closing ceremony, followed by a networking and drinks reception. To find out more and to register, visit www.birminghambolt.com.